Novel technologies for the encapsulation of bioactive food compounds

Abstract

Recent advances in nanoscience and nanotechnologies offer a revolutionary approach to the development of novel and healthier foods. Nano-technological and micro-technological carriers based on biomolecules may be tailored in order to deliver molecules, e.g., drugs, nutraceuticals and others, to any organ and tissue in the body. New micro- and nano-biocarriers based on food-grade polysaccharides, proteins, lipids and their blends, coacervates and also hybrid inorganic-biological molecules provide novel platforms to enhance the bioavailability, stability and delivery efficiency of bioactive molecules in the body.